How Should We Expand Access to Psychedelics While Maintaining an Environment of Peace and Safety?
Zachary J Verne, Jeffrey S Zabinski
AMA journal of ethics November 1, 2024 DOI: 10.1001/amajethics.2024.868 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Ketamine clinics Medical safety protocols Mental health treatment Therapeutic guidelines |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key points | Argues that balancing protection from exploitation and risks of hypermedicalization requires differentiating between psychiatric patients and wellness users of psychedelics. |
Abstract
Psychedelics have long been used by individuals seeking peace and a sense of wellness. This article examines widespread adoption of ketamine as a proxy for psychedelics. For ketamine, there is a need to protect vulnerable persons from exploitation that should be balanced against risks of hypermedicalization. This article suggests strategies for striking such a balance, including by carefully differentiating between persons with psychiatric illnesses, such as treatment-resistant depression, who could benefit from psychedelics, and persons using psychedelics for peace and wellness under careful guidance.